Introduction
Purchasing a catamaran is not just about the money—it’s the beginning of a lifestyle filled with adventure, freedom, and the joy of life on the water. Whether you dream of island-hopping through the Caribbean or embarking on long Pacific or Atlantic offshore passages, your choice of catamaran will shape your future experiences.
For many buyers working within a set budget, a common dilemma arises: Should you opt for an older, larger catamaran with more space or choose a newer, smaller one with modern features? This article explores the pros and cons of each option, guiding you through the decision-making process to ensure you select the best catamaran for your cruising plans.
Section 1: Understanding Buyer Priorities
When deciding between an older, larger catamaran or a newer, smaller one, understanding your priorities is crucial. Your budget, how you plan to use the boat, and your tolerance for ongoing maintenance are all factors that will shape your decision.
Buyers come with different goals. A family planning to live aboard long-term will have different needs than a solo sailor looking for shorter, seasonal cruising. Similarly, those who plan to circumnavigate will need more gear and space than buyers who want to use their boat for occasional holidays. Think about how your catamaran will serve as both a home and an adventure vessel. Comfort, capacity, and the ability to carry necessary gear all play a role in your long-term enjoyment of catamaran life.
Pro Tip: By starting the buying process with me 12-24 months before you're ready to purchase, you give yourself time to learn about the models that align with your priorities. My Catamaran Assessment process helps you narrow down your options and ensures you’re prepared to act when the right boat becomes available.
Section 2: Benefits and Drawbacks of Buying an Older, Larger Catamaran
Advantages:
More space for accommodations and comfort: Older, larger catamarans typically offer more living space, which can be especially appealing for families or groups planning extended voyages.
Ability to carry more gear for long-term cruising: Larger boats can handle more essential equipment like spare parts, solar panels, larger water tanks, and water makers, making them ideal for long-term cruising and self-sufficiency.
Sturdier build: Many older catamarans were built with heavier, more durable materials, giving them a solid feel in rougher seas.
Better upwind performance and smoother motion: Larger catamarans generally sail better upwind and have a more stable motion, especially in rough conditions. They tend to experience less "hobby-horsing," offering a smoother ride on long offshore passages.
Disadvantages:
Higher maintenance costs: Although an older boat may have a lower upfront cost, ongoing maintenance expenses—engines, rigging, and electronics—can quickly add up.
Wear and tear: Even the most well-built boats show signs of aging, which can lead to more frequent repairs and replacements.
Outdated design: Older boats may lack modern conveniences, which could require significant upgrades to bring them in line with current standards of comfort and technology.
Higher operational costs: Docking, mooring, and maintaining a larger boat often come with higher costs.
Financing challenges: It can be harder to secure financing for boats over 20 years old, limiting your options.
Pro Tip: Finding the right older boat means uncovering the one-in-fifty model that’s been properly refitted and maintained. I specialize in helping buyers identify where a boat is in its refit cycle and assessing its long-term maintenance needs, so you know exactly what you're getting into—and can “reduce” costly surprises. I say “reduce” because costly surprises are part of boat life. We might as well start working on your expectations now, aye?
Section 3: Benefits and Drawbacks of Buying a Newer, Smaller Catamaran
Advantages:
Lower maintenance needs: Newer catamarans come equipped with younger systems that typically require less upkeep, giving you peace of mind and more time on the water. If the gear or equipment is older than seven years, it will likely need repairs or replacement within the next few years. Just think how long your home appliances lasts versus a salty, shaky environment onboard.
Modern design features: Advancements in hull design and sailing technology make newer boats more efficient and easier to handle, especially for short-handed crews or solo sailors.
Lower operational costs: A smaller, newer boat will usually cost less in terms of fuel, insurance, and docking fees.
Disadvantages:
Less space: The biggest trade-off with a newer, smaller boat is the reduced living and storage space, which may affect comfort on long passages or living aboard.
Limited ability to carry heavy equipment: Smaller boats have limited capacity for the gear required for long-term cruising, such as solar panels, water makers spare parts tools and lifestyle equipment.
Higher purchase price: Newer boats may have lower maintenance costs but usually come with a higher upfront price, meaning you may have to compromise on size.
Less "overbuilt" sturdiness: Some sailors prefer the solid, overbuilt feel of older models. Newer catamarans are often designed with lighter materials for better performance, which may come at the expense of long-term durability.
Pro Tip: Newer boats may look attractive, but not all models have been tested over time. Some catamarans have structural issues that only become apparent after many years of use. Most owners often don’t disclose or discuss major structural issues out loud for fear of devaluing their investment. With large warranty repairs and payouts, boat builders often get buyers to sign nondisclosure agreements, so the wider public often does not find out about model-specific issues for many years. I help you reduce and avoid buying into these hidden problems, ensuring your investment holds value. That said, structural strengthening and repair is becoming a normal yet messy, annoying part of catamaran ownership.
Section 4: The Budget Factor – How to Maximize Value
Maximizing the value of your catamaran purchase goes beyond the initial price tag. It's essential to think about the total cost of purchase, which includes maintenance, repairs, and the upgrades needed to match your cruising or comfort plans. Older boats may require more immediate refits, but those refits give you the opportunity to customize the boat exactly to your needs. And you will learn your boat while doing so. Newer boats, on the other hand, may come more ready to sail, saving you time and effort upfront but often costing more in initial investment.
Financing is another important factor. While older boats may have lower upfront costs, they can sometimes be harder to finance. Newer boats typically have better financing options, though they also come with a higher purchase price.
Pro Tip: My Catamaran Assessment Spreadsheet compares boats not only on purchase price but also on long-term costs like refits and maintenance, so you can make a well-informed decision that suits your financial plan.
Section 5: Resale Value and Market Considerations
When considering resale value, older, larger catamarans and newer, smaller ones have advantages. Larger boats tend to retain value well because they appeal to liveaboard families and long-term cruisers who prioritise space. On the other hand, newer boats attract buyers looking for modern features and a turnkey experience, which often fetches a premium in the resale market.
Current trends indicate growing demand for boats equipped with modern conveniences like solar power, lithium batteries, dishwashers, and advanced electronics. However, well-maintained older boats, particularly those that have had substantial refits, also remain in high demand.
Pro Tip: Resale value depends heavily on maintenance and upgrades. I help clients focus on models that hold value well and avoid overpaying for boats likely to depreciate, ensuring you get the most return on your investment.
Section 6: Addressing Different Cruising Grounds
The cruising grounds you plan to explore will also impact your decision. If you’re planning shorter, coastal trips—say, a few months exploring the Bahamas—a smaller, newer boat may suit you perfectly. These boats are easier to handle and maintain for shorter, more frequent cruising stints.
However, if you’re dreaming of extended offshore voyages or crossing oceans, a larger catamaran's comfort, stability, and upwind performance will be crucial. The larger the hull, the more space you have for gear, and the more stable your boat will be in rough seas.
Pro Tip: Understanding your long-term cruising goals helps ensure you buy a boat that fits your lifestyle and cruising ambitions. I guide you through this decision to find the right balance between budget, model style, performance, comfort, and practicality, as well as what will keep your significant other happy onboard.
Section 7: The Emotional and Personal "Feel" of Buying a Catamaran
Catamaran buying is about more than just technical details; it's also an emotional decision. The moment you step aboard, you should feel at home. Whether you’re drawn to the charm of an older, well-loved vessel or the sleek lines of a new model, that connection to your boat is essential.
Do you enjoy the idea of customizing an older catamaran to reflect your style? Or are you more interested in stepping aboard a newer boat with no work required? There’s no right or wrong answer, just the one that feels right for you.
Pro Tip: Your boat is your home on the water, and the emotional appeal is as important as the specs. I help you balance your heart’s desire with the practical aspects of boat ownership to ensure long-term satisfaction.
Section 8: Real-World Case Studies
Example 1: A 2008 Leopard 46 vs. a 2020 Leopard 40The older Leopard 46 provided more space and better upwind performance, making it the ideal choice for a family planning extended cruising. Although it required some upgrades, it offered a smoother ride in rough seas. The newer Leopard 40, while easier to handle and with more modern conveniences, didn’t quite offer the same level of comfort for long offshore passages.
Example 2: A 2010 Lagoon 440 vs. a 2020 Lagoon 40A young family faced the decision between an older, larger Lagoon 440 and a newer Lagoon 40. The Lagoon 440 had undergone extensive refits and offered more space, but it required higher ongoing maintenance. The Lagoon 40, while smaller, offered modern systems and was ready to sail immediately, which better suited the family’s desire for a turnkey experience.
Example 3: An Aging Buyer vs. a Young Cruising FamilyLet’s consider two different buyer profiles: an aging buyer (aged 62-65) and a young cruising family. For the aging buyer, a smaller, newer catamaran is likely a better option. The newer boat will require less time spent on refits, fewer unexpected repairs, and easier handling—ideal for a buyer with less time or energy to devote to the hands-on work an older boat demands. Additionally, the lower ongoing maintenance costs and simpler systems reduce the burden of managing the vessel over time.
In contrast, a young cruising family might lean towards an older, larger catamaran. With more time available to invest in refitting and the ability to take advantage of the extra living space, the family could customise the boat to meet their specific needs. The larger catamaran’s ability to carry more gear and provide comfortable accommodations makes it a better fit for longer-term cruising, where space is a valuable commodity.
Example 4: An Executive or Less Experienced Buyer An executive or a less hands-on buyer who may lack the time or inclination to deal with frequent repairs and upgrades may benefit from purchasing a smaller, newer catamaran. The reduced maintenance and improved systems on a newer boat make it more of a turnkey solution, ideal for those who want to enjoy the water without extensive hands-on work. In this scenario, a newer, smaller catamaran allows the buyer to enjoy the cruising lifestyle without the steep learning curve or ongoing maintenance demands of an older boat.
Real World Anecdotes: One of my valued customers was seeking a short-term sabbatical with his family. He wanted to purchase in Europe and potentially sail to New Zealand. This can be a challenging buyer type, given the fixed budget. He needed to cover both the purchase, repairs, and living/travel expenses for the two-year trip. He was initially excited about purchasing a Leopard 44, and we made an offer. The owner countered. After careful consideration, we decided not to raise our offer due to budget concerns.
Fortunately, another option emerged—a very well-refitted older Lagoon 470 with hundreds of thousands of euros spent on it in recent years, including new engines. While not as modern as the Leopard 44, it offered a longer hull and better sea-keeping, plus it was $80,000 cheaper. He ended up purchasing the Lagoon 470 (despite the tricky listing brokers and trying to manage a massive financial risk the brokers wanted him to take in the transaction, that’s another story), successfully sailed it across the Atlantic, and later sold it for almost what he paid. The budget and trip were successful, and the family checked off a significant life goal.
For another buyer, a couple in their 60s, we considered a lightly used but not yet refitted 12-year-old Leopard 44 at the dock. It looked nice and shiny and, if combined with a slick sales broker, could easily fool an uninformed buyer. Still, when we considered the maintenance history and lack of replaced equipment onboard, I could tell she was ready for an extended refit. Therefore, given their substantial net worth, I recommended they purchase a newer catamaran instead of spending 12 months refitting an older model. They are now happy owners of a newer Fountain Pajot, which allowed them to start cruising quickly.
Pro Tip: Confused? These are just examples to stir your thinking. Don’t worry—I’ll help you work through all these factors and identify the best options for your catamaran dreams and plans. Having a mentor like me in your corner ensures you’re not just buying a boat—you’re making a smart, long-term investment in your cruising future.
Section 9: Key Questions Buyers Should Ask Themselves
Does space matter more than having the latest technology?
Larger boats offer more room, but newer models may come with advanced systems that make cruising easier and more enjoyable.
Am I prepared for repair projects?
Older boats often need more maintenance. Are you comfortable taking on these challenges, or would you prefer a boat with fewer surprises?
What kind of cruising do I plan to do?
Coastal cruising may be more suited to smaller boats, while offshore and liveaboard cruising might require the space and sturdiness of a larger vessel.
What level of refit and upgrades am I willing to handle?
If you’re not interested in spending time and money on refits, a newer boat might be the better option.
Section 10: How Catamaran Mentor Adds Long-Term Value
Working with Catamaran Mentor means more than just buying a boat—it’s about securing a long-term investment in your cruising future. I offer personalised, client-centred advice to ensure your catamaran suits your lifestyle, goals, and budget.
Informed decisions: I help you understand post-purchase refits and upgrades, ensuring no hidden surprises.
Avoid costly mistakes: With deep knowledge and an ear to the ground of the catamaran market, I help you avoid boats with structural or hidden issues.
Negotiation expertise: My years of negotiation skills ensure you secure the best deal possible.
Reduced stress: I guide you through inspections, assessments, and the entire buying process, saving you time and worry.
Pro Tip: Having a mentor like me ensures you’re not just buying a boat—you’re making a smart, long-term investment.
Conclusion
Choosing between an older, larger catamaran and a newer, smaller one is a deeply personal decision shaped by your goals, budget, and cruising plans. Both options offer unique advantages: older boats provide more space and better performance in certain conditions, while newer models bring modern conveniences and ease of ownership.
At Catamaran Mentor, my specialty is helping you navigate this decision with confidence, ensuring you make an informed choice that aligns with your long-term cruising dreams.
Ready to Navigate Your Catamaran Buying Journey with Confidence?
Whether you're leaning toward the spaciousness of an older vessel or the modern conveniences of a newer model, expert guidance can make all the difference.
Find out more about my mentoring process here:Catamaran Mentor Flyer
Let’s connect!Schedule a brief, complimentary discovery call to discuss your catamaran goals and see how I can guide you toward a great catamaran.
Regards
Peter Rollo MBA
WhatsApp txt or calls +64 21 222 6944
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